Balkan Pharmaceuticals Oxandrolon 100 tabs (10 mg/tab)

Oxandrolone – Anavar

Anavar is a gentle yet effective anabolic steroid, favored by athletes and bodybuilders alike, primarily for its ability to promote weight gain.

The drug’s popularity stems from the fact that it does not convert to estrogen, leading to a lower risk of gynecomastia. Users also report minimal water retention when using Anavar.

Since its introduction to the North American market nearly half a century ago, Anavar was initially employed to address various infertility issues, anemias, and to aid those suffering from significant weight loss in clinical settings. However, its current clinical applications are limited. Anavar stands out due to two key advantages over other anabolic steroids: it avoids estrogen conversion and has minimal effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis at low doses. This feature helps prevent male breast enlargement and minimizes testosterone suppression, thus reducing the risk of related side effects such as decreased libido, impotence, and testicular atrophy, often associated with anabolic steroids.

Pharmacology

Oxandrin acts as both an anabolic and androgenic steroid, exhibiting similar actions to testosterone. At low doses, it possesses selective anabolic properties, and at higher doses, it can show potent androgenic effects. High doses may affect the hypothalamus, leading to suppressed gonadotropin release and a decrease in testosterone production. Like other anabolic steroids, Oxandrin can elevate LDL cholesterol levels while lowering HDL cholesterol levels. Notably, Anavar remains one of the few anabolic steroids that do not convert to estrogen at low doses.

Indications

This drug is infrequently used in modern clinical practice. It was once utilized for treating various forms of anemia, weight loss in HIV patients, and osteoporosis. However, due to widespread abuse, its production ceased in 1989 by Searle. Currently, Oxandrin is manufactured by Savient Pharmaceutical, used primarily for patients needing to gain weight after severe trauma, burns, or infections, often in conjunction with corticosteroids for managing bone pain in cancer patients.

Dosage

For treating anemia or aiding weight gain, the typical adult dosage ranges from 2.5 to 20 mg per day divided into 2-4 doses. Some individuals may respond to lower doses, while others might need 30-150 mg per day. The recommended duration of therapy is 3-6 weeks, with gradual increases in dosage if no response is observed in the initial 4 weeks. Oxandrin is available as a tablet in 2.5 mg or 10 mg doses.

As with all anabolic steroids, Oxandrin may cause side effects. At lower doses, side effects are usually mild and may include minor abdominal discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea. However, higher doses can lead to severe side effects such as:

• jaundice
• rare hepatic necrosis
• liver cancers
• general malaise
• testicular atrophy
• hair loss
• breast enlargement
• stomach cramps, nausea, bloating
• acne, oily skin
• diarrhea
• menstrual irregularities

The majority of these side effects are reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.

Contraindications

Certain conditions warrant avoiding Oxandrolone, including:

• suspected prostate cancer
• breast cancer in males or females
• pregnancy
• evidence of hypercalcemia
• allergy to anabolic steroids

Bodybuilders

Anavar is favored among bodybuilders due to its efficient absorption, typically taken with meals. Men usually take one tablet twice daily, while women require only one tablet daily. Many begin with lower doses, often combining Anavar with other compounds like Dianabol, Winstrol, or Anadriol to minimize side effects. Treatment spans 4-8 weeks, starting typically at 5 mg daily, gradually increasing over 2-3 weeks.

Women particularly appreciate Anavar for its low virilizing effects at lower doses. However, if daily doses exceed 5 mg for over 6 weeks, signs of masculinization may appear. Weight gain from Anavar is gradual, with most users noting results within 3-4 weeks.

Signs of virilization can include:

• deep voice
• decreased libido
• clitoral enlargement
• acne
• excessive hair growth

Women experiencing virilization should discontinue use immediately. While some effects like acne and hair growth may reverse, others may not be as easily reversible.

Warnings

All anabolic steroids, including Anavar, pose potential risks to liver health, including jaundice. There are documented cases of liver dysfunction and liver tumors developing with long-term use. The most significant risk associated with anabolic steroids is liver cancer; thus, those using this drug should maintain awareness of this threat. Regular liver enzyme tests and annual ultrasound checks are advisable.

Overdose

Overdoses from anabolic steroids are uncommon and generally not life-threatening. Nonetheless, if a large quantity is ingested, one may feel unwell for an extended period. In such cases, visiting the emergency room is recommended. Supportive treatment is standard for all steroid overdoses.

Costs

The price for Anavar (100 tablets, 2.5 mg) ranges from $100 to $150. Due to high demand, counterfeit products are an issue. Purchasing from reputable suppliers is crucial, especially as many bodybuilders source from Mexico, where quality assurance is uncertain. Genuine Anavar obtained from pharmacies can cost between $700 and $1200 for 100 tablets.

Levels

Anavar and its metabolites are detectable in urine, and major sports organizations routinely test for these anabolic steroids. Metabolites can remain in the body for 7-14 days post-use.

Legal

Anavar is classified as a controlled substance, making its sale and distribution illegal in the USA. The DEA actively monitors its distribution through pharmacies and online platforms. Given its lack of approved clinical use in the country, possession of Anavar is considered an offense.